Standing up for Primary Education in General Election 2024

As Ireland stands at a pivotal moment in its educational journey, the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO) has introduced a General Election Manifesto that identifies 30 critical areas in need of government investment by 2030.

Our aim is ambitious: to create the world’s best primary and special education system.

This ambition is not mere rhetoric; it’s a necessity. A world-class education system is the foundation of a thriving society, and the responsibility of any new government is to ensure that every child receives an unparalleled start in life.

The OECD underscores that equitable access to quality education is the backbone of a fair society. To achieve this, the INTO calls for a 5% increase in the share of total government expenditure on the school sector between 2026 and 2030. Primary education forms the bedrock of all societal advancement, and it is clear that the success of an education system is intricately tied to the success of the teaching profession. As noted by the UN High-Level Panel on the teaching profession.

“When we begin with transforming education systems, we can transform conditions of work in schools, transform the practice of teaching, transform learning and transform lives.”

The challenges facing primary and special education today are substantial, but so too are the opportunities. By taking a comprehensive approach that meets the diverse needs of students, teachers, and schools, Ireland can establish a system that not only meets but surpasses international standards. Our manifesto advocates for smaller class sizes, enhanced teacher training and professional learning opportunities for teachers, improved infrastructure, and greater resources for special education—all designed to elevate our education system to new heights.

We must also address the ongoing housing crisis, which significantly impacts teacher recruitment and retention. A future government must commit to solutions that relieve this burden on our teachers and support their essential work.

The INTO pledges to champion an ambitious agenda that prioritises the needs of our students and teachers alike. Teachers are the heart of our education system, and it is crucial that they are supported, valued, and empowered to inspire the next generation.

We urge the next government to match this ambition with action. The time for incremental changes has passed; now is the moment for a transformative strategy that meets the needs of every child across the nation. By embracing this vision, we can ensure that Ireland not only meets future challenges but leads in educational excellence.

Together, let us make Ireland a beacon of educational success, where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

The future of our nation depends on it.

For more information visit HERE.